Search form

Hiking Trails

Located southwest of Bozeman, this trail follows South Cottonwood Creek through a dense old-growth forest with lush riparian areas and meadows, criss-crossing the creek along the way. This well-maintained trail is great for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking. Read more >>

In the Gallatin Range lies a constellation of lakes, and all of their secrets, which can be found by you. Bring a fishing rod. Five of the lakes contain golden or rainbow trout (or both), and all enjoy the high-mountain air of a trail that begins above 8,000 feet. Read more >>

A popular dog-walking trail, Mt. Ellis Trail begins by crossing an open field with a gradual incline. At the top of the field, the trail continues up and around the backside of the mountain. Read more >>

New World Gulch is located southeast of Bozeman, branching off of Bear Canyon along the east slope of Mount Ellis. The stream-fed gulch is due north of Mystic Lake. New World Gulch Trail climbs up the drainage, first to a meadow below Mt. Read more >>

Storm Castle is a rocky peak sitting atop the east wall of Gallatin Canyon. The hike begins at Storm Castle Creek and climbs the mountain's south-facing slope to a dramatic, multi-tiered summit, where there are sweeping 360-degree views of the adjacent mountains and canyons. Read more >>

Palisade Falls is located south of Bozeman, in the Hyalite Recreation Area, just beyond the reservoir. The trail begins at the East Fork of Hyalite Crk., then follows a tributary for approximately a half-mile to a bridge fronting the falls. Read more >>

This trail climbs 2,200 feet in 4.6 miles, past the spectacular Frog Rock pinnacles, to the ridge of Chestnut Mountain. After about a mile, a short spur trail traverses west, providing climbing access and a spectacular hike or bike ride to the base of Frog Rock. Read more >>

Drinking Horse Mountain is the prominent hill across from the popular “M” trail at the mouth of Bridger Canyon. The trail meanders along the Fish Technology Center to a bridge over Bridger Creek, followed by the official trail arch. Read more >>

Fairy Lake is a gorgeous green lake in a forested bowl at the base of Sacagawea Peak. The trail loops around the perimeter of the lake for an easy 1.2 miles. This is a great place to have a picnic, fish, and swim. The lake is a short distance from the Fairy Lake Campground. Read more >>

At the mouth of Bridger Canyon is the landmark “M” created by Montana State University students in 1915. There are two routes to the M from the trailhead. For a steep and direct ascent, continue straight/right at the first junction; for an easier and longer ascent, take a hard left. Read more >>